Booklist Online - Review of the Dayhttp://www.booklistonline.comen-gbSun, 02 Aug 2015 20:11:18 GMTALA Booklist Publications Copyright 2007http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss90Booklist Online - Review of the Dayhttp://www.booklistonline.com/Mercury-Hope-Larson/Images/3340/33472/Juba.jpghttp://www.booklistonline.com/default.aspx?page=show_product&pid=7532050Juba!&#13;&#13;<br><H><font size=3>Myers, Walter Dean (author).</font></H>&#13;<br>&#13;Oct. 2015. 208p. illus. Amistad, hardcover, $17.99 (9780062112712). Grades 6-9. <br>&#13;<font color='#3366FF'>REVIEW. </font>&#13;First published July, 2015 (<i>Booklist</i>).&#13;&#13; <p>Having plumbed the archives for information about the nineteenth-century dancing sensation known as Juba, Myers pieces together a fictionalized account of his extraordinary life in this posthumous novel. Set in the Five Points district of New York City, the story begins with teenager William Henry Lane’s dream of becoming a dancer. At a time when slavery is still practiced and black entertainers are expected to clown in minstrel shows, Juba, as he is called, wants to be known for his talent. Dancing with the speed and inventiveness of a young man possessed, he earns a reputation that eventually allows him the opportunity to tour Britain. Juba’s passion, determination, and optimism—and position as a free man—during a time rife with racial injustice make his story unique. (Note that period-appropriate use of the n-word may prompt classroom or dinner-table discussion.) Vintage illustrations and news clippings, and the incorporation of historic figures, further help to bring him to life. Though Juba meets a sad and premature end, his story offers an intriguing glimpse into America’s past.</p>&#13; <p>&#13; <b>HIGH-DEMAND BACKSTORY:</b> Among the last books written by the award-winning Myers, who died in 2014, this will surely receive substantial attention and interest from his many fans.</p>&#13;<i>&#151; Julia Smith</i>&#13;http://www.booklistonline.com/default.aspx?page=show_product&pid=7532050Sun, 02 Aug 2015 20:11:18 GMTFirst published July, 2015 (<i>Booklist</i>).